University Overview
The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been consistently ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers.
Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.
Posted Job Title
Plant Propagation Apprentice - Morris Arboretum & GardensJob Profile Title
Temporary Employee - Non-ExemptJob Description Summary
The Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania inspires an understanding of the relationship between plants, people and place through education, research and horticultural display. Located in the Northwest section of the city, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a destination for plant lovers from Philadelphia and beyond. The home to a collection of more than 13,000 woody plants and host to special and educational events. Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a hub for botany, horticulture and urban forestry and a special part of Penn.Job Description
The Plant Propagation Apprenticeship covers the whole range of traditional plant propagation skills and production schemes. The Apprentice will spend 12 months (expected duration of apprenticeship) receiving hands-on training in seed and cutting propagation, nursery and greenhouse management, organic pest control and maintenance of a unique Victorian Fernery. Emphasis is placed on the refinement of skills and developing the protocols for the propagation and care of a vast range of woody and herbaceous plants. This position is supported by the Martha J. Wallace Plant Propagation Apprenticeship Endowment.
Whomever is selected for this part-time position should expect to work upwards of 40 hours a week depending on operational need. This position pays $16.00 an hour.
Duties & Responsibilities
Seed, division and cutting propagation, potting, watering and pruning.
Assist with the production of 5,000 container plants annually for use in the gardens and for distribution.
Data collection and inventory management.
Management of the field nursery, pest, and disease monitoring.
Scheduling weekend and holiday watering.
Complete a project under the direction of propagator.
Participate in monthly education trips as scheduled.
Supervise volunteers as required.
Perform fernery maintenance.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Degree in horticulture or related field, with course work in propagation and nursery management.
Prior experience in nursery, greenhouse and or plant science research work helpful.
Some weekend work required
Need to work independently and as part of a team in a friendly, visitor-centric environment.
Must work in all weather conditions
Must be able to lift at least 25lbs.
Requires standing, stooping and walking for long periods of time.
Important Note: In addition to the online application, applicants are required to provide the following supporting documents:
Cover letter/Letter of intent
One Letter of recommendation
College transcripts (unofficial acceptable)
The supporting documents may be uploaded with the online application (uploads are limited to 3 documents).
Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaDepartment / School
Morris ArboretumPay Range
$7.25 - $16.00 Hourly RateSalary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Special Requirements
A background check may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.
University Benefits
- Health and Life: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare.
- Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn’s Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
Please note that benefit eligibility is determined/based on ACA guidelines.
Skills Required
- Degree in horticulture or related field with coursework in propagation and nursery management.
- Prior experience in nursery, greenhouse, and/or plant science research work.
- Availability to work some weekends and holidays.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a visitor-centric environment.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions.
- Able to lift at least 25 lbs.
- Requires standing, stooping, and walking for long periods of time.
- Cover letter/Letter of intent (must be submitted with application).
- One letter of recommendation (must be submitted with application).
- College transcripts (unofficial acceptable) (must be submitted with application).
University of Pennsylvania Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about University of Pennsylvania and has not been reviewed or approved by University of Pennsylvania.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical coverage is offered through multiple plan options with bundled prescription and behavioral health, plus dental and vision, with eligibility typically beginning on day one when starting on the first of a month. High‑deductible plan enrollees can receive employer HSA contributions alongside wellness and EAP supports.
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Retirement Support — Faculty and staff can participate in 403(b) plans featuring automatic university contributions and a dollar‑for‑dollar matching plan, with an additional supplemental annuity option. Investment access is provided via TIAA with standard rules for rollovers and notices.
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Parental & Family Support — Tuition benefits extend to employees, spouses/partners, and dependent children, complemented by backup childcare/elder care and a paid parental leave policy. Eligibility timing and service requirements apply, with the dependent‑tuition benefit highlighted as a standout offering.
University of Pennsylvania Insights
